Thunderstorms are the most common type of severe weather in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. However, winter storms, extreme hot/ cold temperatures, flooding, tornadoes, and hurricanes can occur. Check CampusAdvisories.gwu.edu for up-to-date weather advisories and information.

Call GWPD (202–994–6111) or 911 when it is safe to do so and provide information, including the location and number of shooters, description of the shooter(s), weapons used and number of potential victims

Get Out

If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises: Have an escape route and plan in mind

Evacuate regardless if others agree to follow

Leave your belongings behind

Help others escape if possible

Prevent others from entering an area where the active shooter may be

Keep your hands visible

Follow the instructions of any police officers

Do not attempt to move wounded people

Hide Out

If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less likely to find you:

Hide in an area out of the shooter's view

Find protection if shots are fired in your direction

Lock the doors

Block entry to your hiding place with heavy objects or furniture pieces

Silence your cell phone and stay quiet

Spread out: Do not huddle together

Wait for law enforcement

Take Out

As a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the shooter by: